Chamber Announces a Change in Tradition

SCHENECTADY, NY (06/26/2007)(readMedia)-- The Chamber of Schenectady County has announced a new tradition for the City’s annual Holiday Parade. It will be held on a new date – the Saturday before Thanksgiving – at a new start time. Capital Region residents should mark their calendars for Saturday, November 17, 2007 at 5 p.m.

The Holiday Parade is a tradition dating back to 1969. Originally designed to draw people downtown as the Christmas shopping season officially began on “Black Friday,” the day after Thanksgiving, the nighttime parade has become one of the Capital Region’s most anticipated events with more than 100 entries and up to 40,000 spectators.

“With the Renaissance Schenectady is experiencing, our schedule of holiday activities is flourishing,” stated Mayor Brian Stratton. “The earlier parade date will kick off a week-long run of the Broadway hit The Drowsy Chaperone at Proctor’s Theatre, the opening of the holiday exhibit at Schenectady County Historical Society and a gorgeous holiday display in City Hall’s newly renovated rotunda.”

“Moving the parade six days earlier on the calendar also opens the prospect of participating to many retailers, who haven’t been able to be involved in the parade on Thanksgiving weekend,” noted Mona Golub of Golub Corporation, Chairperson of the event. “The new date also increases opportunities for school bands and other organizations to take part, since the date will not conflict with holiday travel plans.”

Chamber Board Chair Martin Finn of Lavelle & Finn, LLP, said the announcement of the change pleased him, “We recognize that the parade draws thousands of children, and the earlier start time and calendar date enhances the opportunity for everyone to enjoy this premier family entertainment event.”

This year’s parade theme is Classic Television Oldies and is sure to bring some creative floats, dancers and marching groups. Chamber President Chuck Steiner said, “The theme is especially appropriate as the parade marches right past Proctor’s Theatre, the location of the first-ever televised program.”

For more information on the Holiday Parade, please contact The Chamber of Schenectady County at 518.372.5656.